Pros and Cons of studying in Europe

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Studying in Europe can prove to be an enriching experience, with its lure of different cultures, countries and experiences. The bad news is that it is not always as rosy as it may seem. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of pursuing your education in Europe.

PROS

Bigger and better study choices

Many universities in Europe offer study options that can be customized to your needs and preferences. You can mix and match and create a study profile that best defines your career goals. In fact, you are free to choose courses that span across different departments and even across different universities, provided they are relevant to your study profile.

Amazing libraries

Now that you have decided your choice of courses, where else to study but in one of the beautiful libraries scattered across Europe. For instance, the library at TU Delft in the Netherlands made it to the list of the 10 most beautiful libraries in the world and that’s just one of the many cherished libraries here.

Career prospects

Europe offers unmatched exposure and experience that give you better career prospects. Companies are enthusiastic about having international people on their team and students are encouraged to do internships as part of their study.

Travel

While in Europe, you would be given a Schengen visa that lets you visit 26 countries within Europe. Right from the grandeur of Eiffel tower to the intricate architecture of the innumerable churches in Europe, there are plenty of places to visit with your friends. And what’s more, students less than 26 years of age can enter museums and other tourist attractions for free with their id cards. Packed your bags yet?

CONS

Language barrier

The number of English taught post graduate courses has increased dramatically in Europe over the past few years. However, many students in Europe find it difficult to adjust to their daily lives because of the language barrier. Supermarkets and train stations have displays that are primarily in the local language. Communication can become challenging as many locals are not adept in talking in English.

Costs

The tuition fee in Europe, though not as high as the U.S., is pretty expensive. Unless students manage to find a suitable scholarship, it would mean taking huge loans from banks or from other means. Apart from tuition, countries like Netherlands, Sweden, Norway etc. have a high cost of living which means that accommodation and grocery shopping can turn out to be pricey too.

Adapting to a new culture

This category can be either a pro or a con. For some people, settling into a new culture comes quite naturally while for others, it takes quite some effort. Generally, in Europe, people are welcoming and friendly, as long as you don’t interfere too much with their privacy. Give it some time and they can even prove to be fun and loyal friends.

Personally, Europe has given me the experience of a lifetime. I discovered more about myself here and this place has not stopped amazing me since. For people who are hesitant or even a bit afraid to come to Europe to study, I have just three words for you – GO FOR IT!

I am passionate about making this world a better place to live in and I am a firm believer in the equality of the human race. I specialized in Hydrology and I dream of making our planet water secure. Writing is my first love and I am always looking for excuses to write. I look forward to being a part of WeMakeScholars and assist students who aspire to dream high and study further.